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Lisa Marie
04 August 2024
If you're dreaming of turquoise waters, stunning cliffs and laid back island vibes, then Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Lembongan are the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Bali. These two little islands are connected by the iconic yellow bridge and are easily explored by foot or scooter. With fewer crowds than Bali and Nusa Penida, they're ideal for solo travellers seeking a safe, peaceful paradise with dreamy views and chill island vibes.
Getting to Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Lembongan is pretty straightforward. From Bali you can take a fast boat from Sanur beach to Nusa Lembongan. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes and several operators offer daily trips. It's best to book your trip online in advance or through a reputable travel agency. When you arrive at Nusa Lembongan you can rent a scooter to get around, arrange transport with your accommodation or ask a local to bring you to your hotel. If you are staying on Nusa Ceningan, you can easily reach it by scooter via the iconic yellow bridge.
Tip: Some boat companies I have used in the past that I highly recommend for your trip include: D'camel fast boat, the Taris fast cruise and the Glory fast boat. All of which can be booked here.
Budget: Le Pirate Nusa Ceningan, affordable and located across the yellow bridge on Nusa Ceningan. Stay in one of the cute beach boxes and chill by the pool after a day of exploring. Here you will have a front row seat to watch the seaweed farmers and the best spot for a sunset with a cocktail.
Boujee: Tigerlilly's boutique hotel, Nusa Lembongan. A Charming boutique stay with a pool, close to nearby attractions and great restaurants.
Blowout: Indiana Kenanga, Nusa Lembongan. A boutique hotel, restaurant and spa. Splash out and stay in one of their beautiful island vibe villas.
Catch the morning fast boat from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and take a moment to soak in the island's relaxed atmosphere. Then it's time to head off and explore on your first island adventure to Nusa Ceningan. Just a short scooter ride or walk across the iconic yellow bridge, this tiny island is bustling with charm, dramatic coastlines and crystal clear waters. It is also my favourite of the two islands and where I like to stay.
The yellow bridge is more than just a connection. It is a photo worthy moment in itself. Bright, cheerful and uniquely iconic, it links Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan and is easily walkable or rideable by scooter.
Solo travel tip: Stop halfway on the bridge for dreamy shots with the turquoise waters below and boats passing through the channel.
One of the most breathtaking spots on the island, the blue lagoon is where vibrant turquoise waters meet rugged cliffs. It is a spectacular place to just be. Watch the waves roll in, take photos or sit on the cliffside edge journalling and soaking in the stillness.
Note: This is not a swimming spot, it is all about the view.
Just down the road, Mahana Point is perfect for lunch with a view. Perched on the cliffs above the sea, this spot is famous for cliff jumping with 5m and 10m platforms, which is optional of course. It is a great place to watch the surfers catch waves below and relax with a fresh coconut or if you prefer a smoothie bowl like me. On a clear day you can see the volcanoes of Bali in the distance.
Solo tip: Even if you're not jumping, it is an incredible place to sit solo, take it all in and feel the pulse of island life.
Next head to secret beach, a quiet cove tucked away in the south of the island. With powdery sand and calm waters, it is ideal for a peaceful swim or sunbathe. You'll often have it all to yourself.
Solo tip: Bring a sarong, reef safe sunscreen and water. There aren't many facilities here which is part of the charm.
On your way back head to Seabreeze for a sunset coconut or cocktail. This laid back spot has serious island charm. Perched right on the water, it is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. Order a drink, find a comfy seat and watch the sky shift from golden to pastel as the sun sets over the sea. It is peaceful and everything you want a solo sunset moment to be.
Solo tip: There are so many cute little bars and restaurants along this side of Nusa Ceningan you can watch the sunset from. The sunsets i've witnessed on this little island paradise are some of the most breathtaking i've seen on my travels.
Wake up to the sound of waves and get ready to dive into the heart of Nusa Lembongan. Start your morning with a peaceful mangrove boat tour on the island's northern tip. As your boat gently glides through the calm waters, you'll be surrounded by a canopy of mangrove trees and the occasional glimpse of wildlife. It's a calming almost meditative experience, ideal for solo travellers who love nature and stillness. Tours typically last 30-45 minutes and can be arranged through your hotel or at the mangrove beach jetty.
After the mangrove boat tour, head a few minutes down the coast to Pantai Pasir Putih, white sand beach. This calm lesser known stretch is perfect for a peaceful barefoot stroll or a quiet moment sitting by the sea. With soft white sand and clear blue water, it's a hidden gem to enjoy before the rest of the island wakes up.
Now it's time for breakfast with a view at Ginger & Jamu. This beachfront cafe is known for its nourishing feel good menu, think smoothie bowls, sourdough toast, crepes and fresh juices. Take your time here, sitting with your feet in the sand with a coffee in hand, watching the ocean and feeling completely present.
After breakfast head to Devil's Tear, one of Nusa Lembongan's most dramatic natural sights. Here powerful waves crash into the cliffs sending sea spray high into the air and creating a misty, cinematic moment that's mesmerizing to watch. It's a beautiful spot to pause, reflect and feel completely in awe of nature's raw energy.
Solo travel tip: There is no bad time to visit Devil's tear. If you go at low tide expect beautiful views, high tide you can see the power of the ocean or visit for a spectacular sunset. This is a powerful unpredictable spot and best enjoyed with awareness and presence.
Just past Devil's tear you will find Dream beach, one of the island's most photogenic spots. Framed by dramatic cliffs and soft golden sand, it's a beautiful spot for a few hours of sunbathing or simply sitting still and watching the waves. While swimming here can be risky due to the strong currants, the views alone are worth the visit. There's a cliff top pool and cafe nearby if you're in the mood for a cold drink with a breeze.
Next make your way to Panorama point. This scenic lookout offers sweeping views across Jungut Batu beach and out toward Mount Agung on Bali. It is a quick stop but well worth it for photos and perspective.
Wrap up your day with a sweet treat and sunset session at Ohana's Beach club. Grab an ice cream from their beachfront bar and sink into one of the beanbags or hammocks with a cocktail in hand. As the sky turns to soft golds and pinks, the music kicks in and the fairy lights begin to glow. It's the kind of sunset that makes you feel lucky to be exactly where you are, exactly on your own.
Your final day on the Nusa Islands is all about soaking up the ocean magic and giving yourself time to reflect and end your solo escape on the sweetest note.
Start your morning with a light bite and then get ready for one of the most unforgettable experiences of your trip: a snorkelling tour with Ceningan paradise adventures. Their small group tours are perfect for solo travellers, safe and well organized and incredibly scenic. Tours typically last around 3 hours and your guide will take you by boat to some of the best snorkelling spots around the Nusa Islands. The highlight? Manta point, where with a bit of luck, you'll have the chance to swim alongside majestic manta rays as they glide effortlessly through the sea. It's a surreal almost spiritual encounter that leaves you in awe of nature. Other snorkelling spots include Crystal Bay, Gamat Bay and Mangrove point each offering colourful coral reefs and plenty of tropical fish.
After a morning spent in the ocean, head to Mamma Mia bar & grill for lunch. It is a friendly spot with ocean views and an easy going island vibe. It's ideal for solo travellers looking for good food in a relaxed and unpretentious setting.
In the afternoon, head over to mushroom bay for a swim or to relax on the sand. The water here is calm and the pace is slow, perfect for soaking up the last of the daylight.
As golden hour approaches pick your favourite sunset spot, order your final cocktail or coconut and let yourself take it all in. The sound of the waves, the softness of the sky and the freedom of three dreamy days spent exactly how you wanted.
When it comes to food, the Nusa Islands are full of cozy cafes, breezy beach bars and laid back local gems that are perfect for solo dining. Whether you're looking for a beach club brunch or a quiet dinner under the stars, these island eateries will leave both your heart and your belly full. Here are some of my favourites you need to check out on the islands.
Seabreeze: Amazing cocktails
The island: Great lunch spot
My beach warung & bar: Good coffee & smoothie bowls
Le Pirate: Poolside coconuts & snacks
Ginger & Jamu: Best breakfast
Mamma Mia bar & grill: Best Seafood
Ohana's Beach Club: Brunch & cocktails
Lemongrass: Budget friendly
Three days may not feel like enough, but that's the magic of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, they leave you wanting more, in the best way possible. Whether it was floating beside a manta ray, sipping cocktails at golden hour or standing solo on a quiet beach with the wind in your hair, this little island escape is sure to stay with you long after you've left.